Considering that Brazilian scientists described the government's strategy as an "institutional strategy to spread the coronavirus"[1] and they're reporting a lower death rate than France[2], you have to figure something in Brazil is working in humanity's favor. It can't make up for (probably) the worst policies in the world, of course.

[1]: https://english.elpais.com/americas/2021-01-29/study-finds-t...

[2]: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/

A bit more than 20% of the people in France are over 65.

For Brazil, it's a bit more than 9%.

We know very well that age is a significant factor.

I've seen some estimates that with the same age distribution as Brazil France would have had half the number of deaths: https://www.bbc.com/portuguese/brasil-55847831 (Portuguese link)

It may be a factor, but it's a pretty big leap to say that's what is behind countries' successes and failures. I mean, I've even seen people claiming it's due to "Asians eating a lot of fish".

The most obvious explanation is (even literally) right in front of our noses: politics, culture and age distribution.

Your hypothesis does not square with the unfolding tragedy.

https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/what-we-do/news-storie...

I don't think you can conclude anything from those numbers. On the one hand Brazil is very likely underreporting and has a much younger population, but on the other hand their medical care is not as good.

Sarcasm?

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6...

( Resurgence of COVID-19 in Manaus, Brazil, despite high seroprevalence )

Yes, pure sarcasm. Quite a catastrophe there. And a cautionary tale for what happens when denialists get their way.